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3 people died in Coachella Valley due to heat as officials provide more cooling center funding, urge checks on vulnerable

In the past couple weeks, the number of heat-related deaths in the Coachella Valley has increased and officials are again reminding residents to take precautions to avoid heat-related health issues as the high temperatures continue into August.

From the Coachella Valley, three deaths in which heat played a role were reported. A 79-year-old Palm Desert man, an 84-year-old Indio man, and a 91-year-old man from Bermuda Dunes all died about two weeks ago. In addition, three people from Hemet and one from Riverside also died from heat-related issues.

Jose Arballo Jr., Riverside University Health System-Public Health spokesman, said most of the victims had underlying health issues, which made them more susceptible to the heat. Arballo said the heat defiantly contributed to their deaths, though.

And the majority of those who died were older than 79. The elderly, the very young and those with medical issues are the most vulnerable to the heat.

Dr. Cameron Kaiser, Riverside County public health officer, said families and neighbors should take time to check on seniors in their lives to make sure they are safe during the heat. Kaiser said those vulnerable to heat should limit outdoor activity, remain indoors in air-conditioned buildings, wear loose and light-colored clothes, take cool showers and drinks plenty of water. People should also avoid drinking copious amounts alcohol or drinks with high sugar content. And do not leave people or pets in hot vehicles.

The county also has cooling centers throughout the valley that residents can access if needed. The county recently received a $20,000 grant by the Regional Access Project Foundation to fund the cooling centers through April 30, 2019, accepted by the Riverside County Board of Supervisors on Tuesday . The centers provide snacks, water and activities.